How to make a patch cable

How to make a patch cable

How to make a patch cable is a skill that can greatly reduce the cost of buying expensive ethernet and audio cables, as well as giving you the option of creating custom lengths for a centralized network hub, patch panel, or patch bay..  This gives much more flexibility in the planning of shared networks and can create a cleaner working environment, simplifying the process of having to make changes to your network at a later time.

Making different lengths of Cat5 cabling is easy, and can be achieved by first purchasing a box of bulk Cat5 cable and RJ 45 connectors. If Cat6 is your game, this can still be done but will set you back around 20% more in cost.

Ethernet cables are made in two different varieties, straight through or crossover. Straight through patch cable, or patch cords as they are also called, allow for longer cable runs, and are the standard type of networking patch cable.  Crossover patch cables connect computers directly together without the use of a router, hub, or switch.

How to make a patch cable in audio production can offer many of the same benefits as in computer networking, but require different types of cable.  A good standard choice of making patch cables for audio production is coax, or coaxial cable.  These make a very neat and tidy patch cord.  You can even add a color heat (a covered shrink on the ends of the cord), which can help you organize, personalize and identify signal flow.

One only need to make two connections in making an audio cable: the tip (signal), and the ground.  Make these connections using a soldering gun, which are readily available at hardware stores and electrical supply outlets

The benefits of making your own patch cables have many benefits.  The ability to create custom lengths for your applications can result in a cleaner signal flow and network organization, and the cost saved is worth investing the time to understand and learn the process.  

If you want to discuss how a patch cables can improve your workflow in your recording studio, drop us a line at +1 (818) 500-8142 or email us at marketing@bittree.com

We love to talk signal flow!